Page 963 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing

Wordiness

4

Avoid wordiness in writing.

Wordiness sometimes happens when writers do not take the time to

be concise. The shortest and simplest way of expressing an idea is

usually the best way.

The following words and phrases contribute to wordiness and can

usually be omitted:

actually actually often unnecessary

basically basically performs no function in most sentences

definitely is definitely a space-waster

in my opinion usually weakens a sentence in my opinion

really not really necessary

the fact is The fact is that Facts, like opinions, can usually be stated without
that preamble